CVE-2024-43495 is an integer overflow or wraparound vulnerability classified under CWE-190, affecting the libarchive component in Microsoft Windows 11 version 22H2 (build 10.0.22621.0). Libarchive is a library used for reading and writing various archive formats, and improper handling of integer values during archive processing can lead to an overflow condition. This overflow may result in memory corruption, enabling an attacker to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. The vulnerability requires local access with low privileges and user interaction, such as opening a crafted archive file. The CVSS v3.1 score of 7.3 indicates a high severity, with attack vector local (AV:L), attack complexity low (AC:L), privileges required low (PR:L), user interaction required (UI:R), and impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability all rated high (C:H/I:H/A:H). No public exploits are known at this time, and no patches have been released yet, but the vulnerability is officially published and reserved since August 2024. The flaw could be leveraged by attackers to gain code execution and potentially escalate privileges, compromising system security and stability.

The impact of CVE-2024-43495 is significant for organizations using Windows 11 version 22H2. Successful exploitation can lead to full system compromise, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code, steal sensitive information, modify or delete data, and disrupt system availability. Since the vulnerability affects a core system library handling archive files, it can be triggered by opening malicious archives, which are common in email attachments and downloads. This increases the risk of targeted attacks and malware campaigns. The requirement for local access and user interaction limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate risk, especially in environments where users may be tricked into opening malicious files. The vulnerability poses a threat to enterprise networks, government agencies, and critical infrastructure relying on Windows 11 22H2, potentially enabling lateral movement and persistence by attackers.

Until an official patch is released, organizations should implement the following mitigations: 1) Restrict local user privileges to the minimum necessary to reduce the risk of exploitation. 2) Educate users to avoid opening untrusted or unexpected archive files, especially from email or external sources. 3) Employ application whitelisting and endpoint protection solutions to detect and block suspicious archive processing activities. 4) Monitor system logs and behavior for signs of exploitation attempts or unusual activity related to archive handling. 5) Use network segmentation to limit the spread of potential compromises originating from local exploitation. 6) Prepare for rapid deployment of the official patch once available by inventorying affected systems and testing updates in controlled environments. 7) Consider disabling or restricting the use of libarchive-dependent features if feasible in critical environments.